Paula Abdul: 'I quit Idol on principle'

Paula Abdul has said that she decided to quit her role on American Idol because of her "self-respect", rather than money.

The former reality talent judge told TV Guide that she would continue to watch the show despite no longer being part of it.

Abdul said: "I stand on principle where many people stand on money. I'm a hard-working artist. I've lasted in this business for 23 years.

"You can't do that unless you are good at what you do. I believe in myself and you have to have your own self-respect."

She added: "Sometimes decisions are very difficult to make, but I've always believed that at the core I'm a survivor. There's not one thing I've done that I've really set my mind to that I've failed at."

The singer also said that she felt "blessed" to have been part of a programme that made television history.